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Texas Tech University |
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Asbestos is a naturally
occurring mineral fiber. The amphibole asbestos, amosite, crocidolite,
actinolite, anthophyllite, and tremolite, are long, straight, and narrow shape
fibers. The chrysotile fibers are wavy and is classified as serpentine. Building
materials contained any of the types of asbestos can be classified as friable or
non-friable.
Friable: Asbestos containing materials can be crumbled or reduced to
harmful dust by hand pressure. Examples: insulation and fire proofing.
Non-Friable: Asbestos containing materials generally require a very
significant amount of pressure before the harmful dust can be generated.
Examples: cement pipe and floor tiles.
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Is asbestos harmful ?
It certainly can be. Asbestos is a known
carcinogen. Long term studies link asbestos to mesothelioma, asbestosis, and
lung cancer. However with appropriate precautions and safety measures,
individuals can prevent serious health repercussions. The University takes a
very conservative approach to work involving asbestos-containing materials in
order to protect employees, students, and the public. |
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Visit the following links for more information on asbestos. |
Texas Department
of State Health Services
Environmental Protection Agency
Occupational Safety
and Health Administration
Center for Disease
Control and Prevention
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